Risk Factors and Causes

Transcript

Maj Hemstad Type 2 diabetes is the result of the body’s inability to effectively use insulin to transfer glucose from the bloodstream into the body’s cells. This is called insulin resistance. There are a number of risk factors that contribute to insulin resistance, though the exact mechanism for each is still being researched.

Lt Col Reynolds Some of these risk factors include metabolic syndrome, abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels, high blood pressure, being overweight or obese, and physical inactivity. Family history, race, and age can also be risk factors. Additionally, women who have had gestational diabetes and women who have been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome are more likely to develop type 2 diabetes.